To Kevlar or not to Kevlar..

[Texas Diesel]

Getting a new South Bend Clutch installed Monday and need advise on weather to install the Kevlar bushing or the OEM needle bearing. Any comments??

 

[South Bend Clutch]

Texas Diesel,



Since I am the one that sent the kevlar bushing to you and the one that designed it maybe I would be the best to answer the question.



We send both the OEM and the kevlar with all of our kits. The kevlar should only be used if there is a problem with the existing needle roller style pilot Brg.



The Getrag's started with the brass bushing and they had quite a few problems but not all failed. Some lasted for many miles.



Then the New Process came along in 1994 with a needle style of pilot brg. The Ford diesel trucks were using this style all along with miserable results. We originally designed this kevlar bushing for the Ford diesels because of the premature failure. So, as we looked into the Dodges we started seeing an overwhelming problem with them as well. Quite often it was worn past the casing of the part that retained the needles into the flywheel itself and trying to install the factory pilot was impossible for it would just fall out. So we decided to make the kevlar bushing larger not only for strength but to allow you to bore the flywheel out and repair it without starting over with a new flywheel.



The problem continued on throughout the 12 valve years. Once they went to the 24 valve the problem was not as prevalent but still existed. Why? Maybe because the P Pump provides a little more torque then the others, not for sure. Also we have found that a lot has to do with how the truck is driven as well. Taking off in to high of gears can cause undo stress or even down shifting can cause the same type of stress. Last month in Tulare Piers gave a seminar with me and as we talked we found out that this type of driving has the same affect on the Automatics as well.



To get to the point!!!



Should you use the kevlar bushing or not? If it were my truck I would only do the extra work if I found a problem. If there isn't a problem stick with the OEM brg. and put the kevlar in your glove box so you will have it for another day if ever needed.



Sorry for the long post.



Peter

 

[Texas Diesel]

Nuff said. I'll leave the OEM bearing. Thanks for the NOT too long reply. BTW, the new clutch looks like a beauty!



Thanks again.